626 IV (GE) vs Passat B4: which is better?
Mazda 626 IV (GE) (1991–1997) vs Volkswagen Passat B4 (1993–1997): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Mazda 626 IV (GE)
Volkswagen Passat B4Specifications
| Mazda 626 IV (GE) | Volkswagen Passat B4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1991–1997 | 1993–1997 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 115 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque, up to | 170 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Gearbox | manual | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 695 mm | 4 606 mm |
| Width | 1 750 mm | 1 720 mm |
| Height | 1 400 mm | 1 430 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 610 mm | 2 623 mm |
| Fuel tank | 60 L | 70 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Mazda 626 IV (GE)
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Mazda Z6 / LF / FS engine: oil consumption at high mileage
- Age: the last cars were built in 1997, condition is everything
Engine (Mazda Z6 / LF / FS): oil consumption at higher mileage; carbon buildup and ring coking.
Volkswagen Passat B4
Pros
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Age: the last cars were built in 1997, condition is everything
Which one to choose
- 626 IV (GE) — if you care more about: torque.
- Passat B4 — if you care more about: wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: 626 IV (GE) or Passat B4?
626 IV (GE): up to 115 hp, Passat B4: up to 115 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: 626 IV (GE) — about 16 475 ₸, Passat B4 — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.